New Uxbridge pool proposed for $12 million

If approved, new facility could be built by 2015

Jack Ballinger

UXBRIDGE -- Plans for a new public pool in Uxbridge could sink after a proposed $12-million price tag left some politicians feeling uneasy during capital budget discussions.

If approved, the new facility is to be erected in Kennedy Fields on Main Street in 2015. According to Amanda Ferraro, Uxbridge manager of recreation, culture and tourism, the construction of the new pool will depend on the budget approval process as well as grant opportunities.

"It depends on council's approval and funding opportunities such as an infrastructure grant," she said in an e-mail. "Without the grant opportunity, the pool will probably not be built."

The new facility would offer six lanes, larger change rooms and a therapy pool. The construction for the facility was given an estimated price tag of $10 million plus an additional $2 million for servicing and extra fees, said Ms. Ferraro.

Drawings for the facility will be shared with council in the new year.

"It is better to have it here and ready," said Mayor Gerri Lynn O'Connor. "If we should do drawings then we should do them in case a grant comes up."

To save costs, some councillors wanted to look into building a four-lane pool but Ms. Ferraro would not support it.

Councillor Bev Northeast said a new pool would be great for the community, as long as it is something that the Township can afford and maintain.

"In my opinion we need to look at a pool that we can maintain," she said. "We have been in the red with the pool for years."

But according to Ms. Ferraro, cost savings were considered when designing the new facility. A small amount of deck space will be added, everything will be kept on the main floor and space was improved in the change rooms.

"We are trying to be as frugal as possible," she said.

Ms. Ferraro also noted that there will be increased savings as the new equipment will be more efficient.

Mayor O'Connor supported the new pool.

"The (current) pool was built in 1972 and it has done exceedingly well," she said. "When we do it, I hope we do it to the best of our ability. Everyone needs to know how to swim and I don't believe any pool pays for itself but that doesn't mean we shouldn't have one."

Capital budget discussions will continue on Dec. 18 and 19 at 8:30 a.m. in the council chambers.